I use a management company so didn't advertise to any of my STR guests that I was the owner.

I live and invest here and could recommend some agents or property managers and answer any financing questions you might have.

Do I have to hire a management company?

I self manage that as well. 

I believe one of the most difficult parts of real estate is scaling your purchases and management.

I am a Real Estate Professional who bought a Property Management Business a little over 2 years ago.

However, with the projected negative cash flow and uncertainties of remote management, consider the financial strain and risks.

typically if you are out of state investor, I recommend you have a local PM to rehab and manage the rental.

Used Zillow Rental Manager.

If you're planning to invest out-of-state, I recommend reading “Long-Distance Real Estate Investing: How to Buy, Rehab, and Manage Out-of-State Rental Properties” - I found it to be very helpful when I got started investing 2.5 years ago.